Our picks of the hottest happenings this weekend.
If you thought the UAE was quiet over the summer, think again. Dubai is filled with exciting things to do. So, whether you’re after staycations, spas or swimming – at night time, no less – here’s what you need to know.
Friday 22 August
Try the new business lunch at Gerbou
Start the weekend on a culinary note at Gerbou, which has just launched a refined business‑lunch menu. Recently spotlighted in the Michelin Guide Dubai, the Emirati-inspired restaurant offers a selection that strikes a balance between comfort and creativity. Begin with light bites, such as fresh Fattoush or a Date Salad, or opt for something heartier, like Chicken Machboos, Lamb Mansaf, or Seabream Dhin Khaneen. Finish with a Sticky Date Cake, a cardamom‑rich Canvas Karak biscuit gelato, or a refreshing Mastic Ice Cream. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm. AED 140 (two courses) or AED 160 (three courses).
GO: Visit www.gerbou.com for more information.
Check into the Mystery Room
For something a little more theatrical, Paramount Hotel Dubai has introduced its Mystery Room package. It’s a playful twist on a staycation, and you won’t know what awaits until you unlock your door. Expect cinematic touches, hidden gifts and exclusive amenities designed to delight curious guests. It’s an imaginative choice for birthdays or anniversaries, blending old‑Hollywood glamour with modern hospitality.
GO: Visit paramounthotelsdubai.com for more information.
Feast at a new Friday brunch
If you prefer to celebrate with friends, FRNDS Restaurant hosts a new evening brunch called ENTRE AMIS. The French-inspired soirée takes its cue from the cult classic film The Gendarmerie of Saint-Tropez and promises a lively mix of dancers, classic hits, and plenty of sparkle courtesy of Laurent-Perrier. A French chef recognised as Maîtres Cuisiniers de France has crafted set menus starting at AED 400, ensuring the food matches the festive atmosphere. Brunch kicks off every Friday at 7pm.
GO: Follow Visit @frndsdubai on Instagram for more information.
Saturday 23 August
Dine by the beach at Maison de la Plage
Ease into the weekend at Maison de la Plage, Chef Izu Ani’s beachside bolthole. The new “Comme à la Maison” experience is designed for families and begins with sharing dishes such as Beef Carpaccio with truffle dressing and a Lentil Salad with pickled vegetables. Main courses are served individually and feature creamy Mushroom Risotto, Penne in a Pink Arrabbiata Sauce or slow-cooked Short Rib. Children have their own selection of Margherita Pizza, Penne with tomato or white sauce, or a Chicken Sandwich with pesto and fries — followed by vanilla ice cream drizzled with warm chocolate. The package is available daily and priced at AED 650 for two adults and one child, with an extra AED 50 per additional child.
GO: Follow @maisondelaplage_ on Instagram for more information.
Enjoy a memorable meal at Girl & The Goose
For a more urban setting, Girl & The Goose has launched The Weekend Table, a leisurely lunch designed to bring people together. Begin with comforting sharing plates such as Cheese Buns, Chorizo Sweet Corn Pancakes, Grilled Beef Skirt Costa Rican Tacos, Red Snapper Passion Fruit Ceviche, and Wild Corn Salad, before choosing a main course. Options include Achiote Miso Seabass, Gigi’s Steak and Frites, Lobster Bisque Yuca Gnocchi, or Omani Coastal Fish. Warm Churros and Horchata Tres Leches arrive at the table for dessert. Available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 5pm. AED 249 per person.
GO: Visit https://girlandthegoose.com for more information.
Spend a night at Dubai Opera with Natalie Imbruglia
Culture enthusiasts can spend the evening at Dubai Opera, where singer‑songwriter Natalie Imbruglia takes the stage. Best known for her 1997 hit “Torn,” which became one of the most-played songs on Australian radio since 1990, the artist will perform a catalogue of nostalgic favourites and newer tracks. It promises a soulful night in a spectacular setting. Tickets start at AED 295.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 24 August
Have lunch at Manāo
Wrap up the weekend with a relaxed lunch at Manāo, Dubai’s Michelin‑starred Thai restaurant. The new Sunday à la carte menu showcases the precision and balance for which the kitchen is known, in a more casual format. Led by Michelin Young Chef of the Year 2025, Chef Abhiraj, alongside Chef Mohammed Orfali of Orfali Bros, the line‑up includes BQ Coconut Chicken Skewers (AED 35), Crispy Sea Bass with Mango Salad (AED 130), Roasted Chicken Laap (AED 60), Sticky Rice Roti with Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Jeow Bong (AED 28) and Yellow Curry of Prawns with Cumin Leaf (AED 85). Available on Sundays from 12pm to 5pm.
GO: Visit manao.ae for more information.
Book a family spa day
If pampering is your priority, Anantara Mina Ras Al Khaimah offers a family‑friendly spa day at its Anantara Spa. Treatments are tailored for all ages, from gentle facials for children to side-by-side “Glow Together” rituals that create shared moments of calm (AED 1,050). Parents seeking deeper relaxation can opt for the “Parent Reset” (AED 650), a combination of massage and facial therapies. Organic ingredients and thoughtful touches make this a restorative outing for both adults and kids.
GO: Email spa.amaa@anantara.com or call 07 204 2284 for more information.
Try the tasty goat tacos at Taqueria Freedah
Finally, foodies can explore new flavours at Taqueria Freedah, where Chef Jorge Rodriguez has introduced Tacos De Cabeza. The dish honours Mexico’s tradition of using the whole animal, presenting a trio of goat tacos for AED 68. Each is prepared using a different method — barbacoa wrapped in maguey leaves and slow‑cooked, birria simmered in a spiced broth, and cabrito grilled or sautéed for a smoky finish. The tacos showcase cuts from the goat’s head, including brain, eye, tongue and cheek, wrapped in fresh tortillas with onions and cilantro. They’re available daily from 1pm to 11pm.
GO: Follow @taqueriafreedah on Instagram for more information.
